Billing FAQs
Answers to your most common billing questions
MTE is committed to making life better for our members by providing clear, helpful information about billing, payment options, and energy use. This page is designed to answer your most frequent questions and help you manage your account with confidence.
Payment and account management
What happens if I do not pay my bill?
Your bill will show the due date and any late fees. If payment isn’t received within 21 days of the due date, your service may be disconnected. You’ll receive a delinquent notice and an automated phone call if we have your current number. To reconnect, you must pay all past due amounts, a reconnection fee, and any other applicable fees. Payments can be made at an MTE office or online through myMTE.
What options are available to help manage my monthly bill?
MTE offers several options to help you manage your account and reduce the impact your monthly bill has on your budget. Through myEnergyPlan, members can choose from a range of plans that fit their lifestyle.
Learn more at mte.com/myEnergyPlan.
Do you offer payment extensions, and how can I request one?
Yes, payment extensions are available for qualifying members. Call our member support team at 877-777-9020 or use our automated system at 877-777-0215, the myMTE app, or the web portal to set up an extension.
Does MTE offer paperless billing?
Yes. Register for myMTE to access and manage your bill settings, including paperless billing options.
Learn more at mte.com/myMTEPaperlessBilling.
When will I receive my bill?
Bills are mailed monthly in cycles. Members can choose their due date by contacting us at 877-777-9020 or visiting a local office.
How do I pay my bill?
You can pay by:
- myMTE mobile app and web portal
- Autopay with a checking account or debit/credit card
- Mailing a check
- Electronic check, credit/debit card by automated phone at 1-877-777-0215
- Cash payments via MoneyGram or InComm Vanilla Direct
- In-person at MTE offices or night depository boxes at select locations
High bill concerns
Why was my bill higher even though I kept my thermostat at its normal setting?
On average, more than half of your energy consumption comes directly from heating and air conditioning. The greater the difference between the outdoor temperature and the indoor thermostat setting, the harder your heating and air conditioning system must work to maintain your desired temperature. Extended periods of high or low temperatures increase energy use, which directly impacts your monthly bill.
What else could contribute to high bills?
Heat pumps switch to auxiliary heat when cold weather drops below 40° — using significantly more energy. Malfunctioning systems, inefficient appliances, poor insulation, or increased remote work can also raise bills.
I use gas to heat my home. Why is my electric bill still high?
Gas furnaces use electric blowers, which run longer during cold weather. Some gas systems include electric humidifiers, which can increase energy consumption.
Should I use space heaters?
Space heaters are less efficient than whole-home heating systems and will increase your electric costs. For example, a 1,500-watt heater running 12 hours/day can cost nearly $50/month. We recommend improving the overall energy efficiency of your home or considering alternative ways to stay warm. If you do use a space heater, always plug it directly into the wall (not a power strip) and avoid placing it near curtains or other flammable materials.
You can get an estimation of what it costs to run your space heater at https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/save-electricity-and-fuel/appliances….
Have rates been adjusted?
Due to inflation and infrastructure costs, TVA and MTE adjusted rates upward on Oct. 1, 2023. MTE’s residential rates remain among the lowest in the nation.
Learn more about rates and how MTE is working to keep energy affordable at mte.com/Rates.
Energy Efficiency and Assistance
How can I monitor my energy use?
Create an online account at mte.com/myMTE or download the myMTE app to track use.
Does MTE offer energy assistance?
Yes. Energy assistance funds are available for qualifying members through local community agencies. Find a list at mte.com/MemberAssistance.
How can I make my home more energy efficient?
MTE’s EnergyPros can perform free Home Energy Checkups to provide an efficiency review of your home and energy habits. Members will receive a workup of efficiency improvements and recommended habits that will reduce their energy consumption.
Are there tips for managing energy costs?
MTE offers a range of services, programs, and resources to help members reduce their energy consumption and lower their monthly energy costs.
Here are some of the offerings members find most valuable to manage their energy:
Contact MTE’s Member Support Team
We understand our members expect more than just affordable, reliable, and safe electricity. You also expect outstanding member service, which includes helping you find answers and solutions to your concerns.
From myMTE app issues to billing questions and everything in between, our member support team is always here to provide you with the help you need. We've put together some useful information for you, but feel free to contact us directly to discuss any additional concerns you have. 
Email:info@mte.com
Phone 877-777-9020